AirSpaceMag.com

Electromagnetic Catapult Test

Engineers test a prototype of an electromagnetic catapult at the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center in Lakehurst, New Jersey. Powered by electromagnetic energy, the prototype can accelerate test articles (massive metal frames on wheels) to 165 mph in three-quarters of a second on a track just 100 feet long. Electromagnetic catapults will eventually replace the Navy’s current steam-powered aircraft launchers.
Video courtesy of Tim Wright Photography (1:47)